Sanctions fuel city price rise

HIGHER fuel prices have made Toowoomba drivers more savvy when they fill up, as prices continue to rise nationwide, despite the government’s efforts to ease costs.

According to experts, international factors are to blame, with sanctions on Russia a contributing factor to the price increase.

A government excise on fuel was cut by 22 cents following the federal budget six weeks ago. Petrol prices are averaging 185.9cpl for unleaded across the Garden City, with some sites nearing 200cpl across the district. Australia’s international benchmark price for unleaded petrol has increased $12 a barrel in the past week. Prices across the nation are expected to reach 200cpl, or close to it.

The government excise is set to return to normal in September.